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Detailed Guide for

Optometrists in California

May also be called: Doctors of Optometry (OD); Eye Doctors; and Optometry Doctors

What Would I Do?

Optometrists, also known as doctors of optometry or ODs, are typically primary vision care providers. They provide two-thirds of all primary eye care in the United States. Optometrists examine the human eye to diagnose vision problems, such as nearsightedness or farsightedness. They test patients’ depth and color perception and ability to focus and coordinate the eyes, as well as test for glaucoma and other eye diseases. Optometrists prescribe eyeglasses or contact lenses. They may also prescribe or provide other treatments, such as vision therapy or low-vision rehabilitation. They may diagnose conditions caused by systemic diseases, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, referring patients to other health practitioners as needed. Optometrists often provide pre- and postoperative care to cataract patients, as well as to patients who have had laser vision correction or other eye surgery.

Optometrists should not be confused with ophthalmologists. Ophthalmologists are physicians who perform eye surgery and treat eye disease, as well as examine eyes and prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses.

Tools and Technology

Optometrists use a variety of tools and technology in their work. Tools and equipment include eye charts, lensometers, ophthalmic eye test lenses, and retinal cameras, as well as optical hand tools such as calipers, pliers, and screwdrivers. They also use accounting, medical, and word processing software in their daily tasks.

Important Tasks and Related Skills

Each task below is matched to a sample skill required to carry out the task.

Examine eyes, using observation, instruments and pharmaceutical agents, to determine visual acuity and perception, focus and coordination and to diagnose diseases and other abnormalities such as glaucoma or color blindness.

Skill Definitions

Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.

Deductive Reasoning

The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.

Critical Thinking

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Speaking

Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Near Vision

The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).

Problem Sensitivity

The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.

Working Conditions

Most Optometrists work in stand-alone optometry offices. They may also work in doctors’ offices, outpatient clinics, health care networks, and retail establishments. Optometrists generally work a 40-hour week, although some may work part time. Some work evenings and weekends to suit patients’ needs. Self-employed Optometrists may work longer hours because they must tend to both medical and administrative duties.

Optometrists are typically not represented by unions; however, those who work for large health care networks may belong to a union.

Will This Job Fit Me?

The job of Optometrist may appeal to those who enjoy searching for facts and figuring out problems. Prospective Optometrists should also enjoy helping people and have the ability to relate to their patients. Optometrists who go into private practice should also possess business skills.

What Wages and Benefits Can I Expect?

Wages

The median wage in 2017 for Optometrists in California was $107,522 annually, or $51.70 hourly. The median is the point at which half of the workers earn more and half earn less.

Benefits

Full-time Optometrists generally receive health and life insurance as well as vacation, sick leave, and retirement benefits. Those who work for large health care networks may receive additional benefits, such as tuition reimbursement and flexible spending accounts. Self-employed Optometrists are responsible for their own benefits.

What is the Job Outlook?

Demand for Optometrists is expected to increase due to the vision care needs of our aging and growing population. However, most job openings will be created by the need to replace Optometrists who retire or leave the field for other reasons.

Projections of Employment

In California, the number of Optometrists is expected to grow faster than average growth rate for all occupations. Jobs for Optometrists are expected to increase by 19.1 percent, or 900 jobs between 2014 and 2024.

How Do I Qualify?

After completing at least three years of postsecondary education with extensive coursework in health, science, and mathematics, prospective Optometrists must complete a four-year Doctor of Optometry program. Prior to admission to a Doctor of Optometry program, applicants must take and pass the Optometry Admission Test (OAT). As students progress through the program, they take on more advanced clinical training and responsibility. Upon completion of the Doctor of Optometry program and the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) examinations, graduates are then able to apply for state licensure.

Experience

Experience varies by employer. Some employers prefer to hire experienced Optometrists, while others may welcome new graduates.

Early Career Planning

Students interested in becoming an Optometrist should take college preparatory courses in biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics to help prepare for the college training required. English, business, foreign language, and computer literacy classes are also helpful.

Continuing Education

Optometrists must complete a minimum of 40 hours of board-approved continuing education every two years in order to maintain licensure.

Licensing and Certification

Optometrists must be licensed by the Board of Optometry to practice in California. Contact the agency that issues the license for additional information. Click on the license title below for details.

Professional optometric associations offer certificates such as the Advanced Competency in Medical Optometry. Certification can help demonstrate a level of competence that may enhance job prospects. For more information, go to the U.S. Department of Labor's Career InfoNet Web site and scroll down to "Career Tools." Click on "Certification Finder" and follow the instructions to locate certification programs.

Where Can I Find Training?

There are two ways to search for training information:

Search by Field of Study to find what programs are available and what schools offer those programs. You may use keywords such as: Optical and Optometry.

Finding a Job

Direct application to employers remains one of the most effective job search methods. Internet job listings, college career centers, or professional associations may also provide job leads. Online job opening systems include JobCentral at www.jobcentral.com and CalJOBSSM at www.caljobs.ca.gov.

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